N
Fame Shock News

bamboo planter box

Author

Jessica Young

Updated on June 16, 2026

Most species of bamboo can be grown in pots or containers. However, care and maintenance can potentially be more involved depending on the species and pot sizes chosen. As with any plant (not just bamboo), they all eventually outgrow their pots and their roots become ‘root bound’.

How deep should a bamboo planter box be?

If you are planning to use planter boxes, 18×18 inches and 18 inches deep is the smallest you should go. Bamboo can be grown in smaller pots temporarily. If you are planting indoors in smaller pots, keep in mind that you will have to divide the bamboo fairly frequently to keep them healthy, 1-2 years.

Is bamboo good for planters?

In general, clumping bamboos, those with less aggressive roots and rhizomes, will be more suitable for containers. These include genera like Himalayacalamus and Otateae. Dwarf bamboos, like Sasa and Pleioblastus, which usually only grow a few feet tall, are also great in pots.

Does bamboo do well in containers?

Ideally, large wooden containers can make a great home for bamboo plants, and provide some additional insulation as well. Regardless of what type of container you choose, as long as it provides enough space, drainage and insulation, your potted bamboo should thrive.

How wide should a planter box be for bamboo?

But I know that the available space isn’t always that much. As a general rule, the planter should be no smaller than 20” by 20”. The smaller the planter the more often you will have to divide the plant to keep it healthy. For this reason, it is really best to start running bamboo in planters of at least 30” by 30”.

Will bamboo spread in a pots?

Growing Bamboo in Containers

It’s the running ones that spread all over garden if you let them, while clumping varieties stay put and expand at a slow and respectable rate. Growing bamboo in pots is possible for both varieties, though there will be a difference in how quickly you have to repot them.

How long can bamboo live in pots?

Bamboo can typically be grown in most containers for 3-7 years, depending upon container, plant(s) selection and growing conditions. Bamboo eventually overpopulates the planting space and the planter cannot provide enough nutrients.

What are the best planters for bamboo?

Ceramic planters greater than 25 gallons in size are big and strong enough to contain mature bamboo specimens. Most ceramic pots are much deeper than wide, so they should be filled half way with gravel before planting.

What is the best bamboo for pots?

Some of the best varieties that you can grow in containers are Seabreeze, Multiplex Hedge, Fargesia, and Buddha Belly. Tip: As the running bamboo turns root bound rapidly, hence provide sufficient space to its roots.

Should bamboo pots have drainage holes?

Drainage Holes Are All Important! Does the pot have sufficient holes in the bottom for good drainage? One 1/2- to 1-inch hole in the bottom is usually good enough, however two or three holes will work better. Drill additional holes if necessary to provide adequate drainage.

Does bamboo need sun?

Lucky bamboo makes a great indoor plant because it can tolerate light shade and indirect sunlight. However, your bamboo will grow larger when exposed to bright light. This doesn’t mean you should put your plant in full, direct sunlight, but keeping it in a bright room can increase its longevity.